An Abu Dhabi animal attraction is to be transformed into a major resort destination almost 20 times its existing size.
Plans for the Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort (AWPR) include a new natural history museum, safari range, hotel and residential areas. The development, which also includes a conservation and animal breeding centre, will eventually,see AWPR grow from 110 to 2,220 acres.
The first phase is due for completion in two years time and will feature themed African, Arabian and Asian safaris with encampments for overnight stays, plus the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre.
The plan, says AWPR managing director His Excellency Majid Ali Al Mansouri, is to offer, ”a new kind of wildlife park where animals and humans live together in a healthy environment. All these new facilities will enhance AWPR’s offering and help transform it into an attractive world-class destination.”
Al Ain is located about an hour’s drive from the city of Abu Dhabi, the largest of the seven United Arab Emirates. Surrounded by seven oases, the area boasts archaeological remains dating back over 3,000 years. The Al Ain Wildlife park already boasts almost 3,500 animals bred in open space enclosures.
